Can one SDR transceiver "do it all"?

[OkieBoyKJ5JFG]

I'm not ready to purchase an HF radio, but I like to consider all the options available. From my understanding of how SDR works, it appears that a high-end unit like Yaesu FTDX-10 could essentially do everything, all bands and all modes. Is that true, or would I end up buying another radio anyway to "fill in some gaps"? The idea of having one unit that I won't outgrow is appealing, but I'm not going to drop that kind of cash if I'll find out it won't cover some band or mode I want to use. If I went that route, would I find out that it won't run (for example) AllStar or P-25 software? I'm sorry if this seems really basic, but I've read quite a bit on this topic, and I can't find this specifically addressed. I'm not dead set on that particular radio; it's just one that pops up a lot when I do a search. Cost isn't a significant limitation, but I'd like to "buy one and be done" if possible.

 

[jwt873]

The FTDX-10 is an HF radio, but like most HF radios, it's primarily meant to be used for SSB and Morse Code communications. In the US, you'd need at least a General ham license to get any real use out of it.

You mention Allstar and P-25. The FTDX-10 only covers the amateur bands from 160 to 6 meters. The modes you mention are used mostly on 2 meters and 70cm. So you'll definitely have to purchase a VHF/UHF radio if you want to chat on the local VHF/UHF repeaters using FM or a digital modes.

 

[KJ4DHF]

 

[KJ4DHF]

 

[nd5y]

Radios can't run AllStar. It's not a mode. You install AllStar (or EchoLink or IRLP) on some type of computer. The computer is connected to the internet and controls a node radio. The computer and node radio could be separate or combined in a mini hotspot type package. Then you use your own radio to talk to the node.

 

[OkieBoyKJ5JFG]

You mention Allstar and P-25. The FTDX-10 only covers the amateur bands from 160 to 6 meters. The modes you mention are used mostly on 2 meters and 70cm. So you'll definitely have to purchase a VHF/UHF radio if you want to chat on the local VHF/UHF repeaters using FM or a digital modes.

Doh! I knew that... I don't know what I was thinking. I plead that it was early and there was too much blood in my caffeine stream.

The FTDX-10 is an HF radio, but like most HF radios, it's primarily meant to be used for SSB and Morse Code communications. In the US, you'd need at least a General ham license to get any real use out of it.

Yes, I'm aware of that. I'll have General before the end of the year. I'm just gathering information.

 

[OkieBoyKJ5JFG]

Radios can't run AllStar. It's not a mode. You install AllStar (or EchoLink or IRLP) on some type of computer. The computer is connected to the internet and controls a node radio. The computer and node radio could be separate or combined in a mini hotspot type package. Then you use your own radio to talk to the node.

Aside from the obvious fact that my brain was on vacation at the time I made the original post, will SDR transceivers in that class pretty much cover all my requirements for HF?

 

[OkieBoyKJ5JFG]

View attachment 188591

Thanks! At this point, I"m doing what you might call a feasibility study. I'll add these to the list.

 

[KJ4DHF]

The HF rigs on the market will do FM,AM,LSB,USB,CW,RTTY and do digital modes. The VHF/UHF will also do FM,AM.LSB,USB,CW,RTTY and digital modes.

 

[K9KLC]

all bands and all modes.

There is no radio that will cover this using the definition of the word "all". There are transceivers that cover HF, 6, 2 meters and 70CM but none do All the bands. (I use 1.25 meters and 900 a lot so there's two not in there, your mileage may vary of course).

As far as all modes no, the Icom 7100 will do D-Star, and the Yaesu 991A will do their C4FM. I'm not aware of a radio that will do P-25 HF.

Everyone seems to recommend the Icom 7300 and if you live somewhere without a lot of neighboring hams that will be ok I guess, we have found out at least on field day, its not good in a crowded environment. What little time I spend at the controls of one, I can tell you the Yaesu 991A actually worked out better.

Then obviously will come the antenna(s) for this unit. figure out what you're going to do there and go for it.

As a Tech you get a sliver of 10 meter SSB and there's fun to be had there even prior to upgrading. Not that most pay any attention to this, you also get 80, 40, and 15 meter CW if you care to do any of that.

 

[OkieBoyKJ5JFG]

There is no radio that will cover this using the definition of the word "all". There are transceivers that cover HF, 6, 2 meters and 70CM but none do All the bands. (I use 1.25 meters and 900 a lot so there's two not in there, your mileage may vary of course).

I'm sorry, I should have said all HF modes. I have 70cm, 1.25m, and 2m well covered. As for an antenna, an Elmer in my club has offered to guide me through building one.

 

[K9KLC]

I'm sorry, I should have said all HF modes. I have 70cm, 1.25m, and 2m well covered. As for an antenna, an Elmer in my club has offered to guide me through building one.

It's ok. I just like to make sure people know what they're asking for. Ya. Got 2,1.25 and 70 cm covered probably a little too well 😂 at least according to my wife.